Easy, may not have been the first word that comes to mind as it applies to your own life. “Summertime and the living is _____.” You get to fill in the blank. What word would reflect your well-being?
The heat outside is a reminder that this is the time of year when people need to move more slowly. Historically businesses anticipated this and the expectations were lowered. Working in healthcare the expectations change minimally for the summer, perhaps fewer meetings. There may even be more demands on you because of short staffing related to colleagues taking off.
To avoid burnout and replenish in ways that may sustain you beyond your vacation, you may want to try one of the ideas below.
Take Your Time – Even if you can’t slow down at work, allow yourself to take a few extra moments at the beginning or end of the day to appreciate the long days of sunlight and the beauty of nature in its fullness.
Be Present – It really doesn’t take more time, rather it takes your attention. Allow yourself to savor the summer moments that are here rather than be distracted by what you did before or the responsibilities yet to be completed. There will be moments this summer you won’t want to miss by being somewhere else in your head. Use your senses to experience what is here now; take in the summer sights, all that green; smell the sunblock and the barbeques; taste the summer foods, perhaps indulging in ice cream for a change; hear the sounds of people having fun outdoors and feel the warmth of the sun on your body.
Experiment – Try something new. You’ll expand your comfort zone and get out of the rut you may be in. Trying new things in your relationships also builds closeness and changes things up. So perhaps you can take a day trip to a new place, try a zip line, or see a show that may be outside your normal choices. Bring your curiosity and see how finding something new that you enjoy can expand your happiness.
“Summertime and the living is _____.” How would you like it to read? What would be the optimal word for you? Try filling the blank several times and see what emerges. What do you have to do to make that experience part of your summertime?
For more ways to connect with your optimal life, contact me.
Revitalize Your Life,
Dina, 203.744.YOU3 (9683), Well-Being Coach
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